Contemporary Craft: The Look of Labor

Abstract

Despite the fact that our world and many of our cultural artifacts are becoming increasingly digitally mediated and technologically generated, a growing number of contemporary artists are turning to the techniques and traditions of craft. Contemporary artists using craft in their work claim the value of a handmade aesthetic and often reject efficiency in their artistic production. This Instructional Resource will explore the work of three contemporary artists who use materials and methods traditionally associated with craft to articulate a hand-hewn aesthetic and grapple with themes of production, labor, and value. Through adopting the methods and materials of craft many contemporary artists question long-standing divisions between domestic production and fine art. A consideration of the work of three such artists can generate both complex discussions and exploratory activities for the art classroom.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jessica Poser

Jessica Poser is Assistant Professor of Art Education at University of Illinois at Chicago. E-mail: [email protected].